Articles

With an ageing heating system reaching the end of its operational life, the project sought to improve energy efficiency, occupant comfort and system reliability ahead of the winter heating season.

 

The Challenge

 

Working within a listed building presented several challenges. The existing heating infrastructure was outdated and no longer met the operational requirements of the property. Any replacement works needed to respect the heritage significance of the building while providing a modern, efficient solution.

In addition, the house and adjoining chapel remained in daily use throughout the project, requiring careful planning and coordination to minimise disruption to residents, clergy and visitors.

 

SHW's Role

 

The SHW Building Consultancy Department acted as Contract Administrator throughout the project, overseeing the delivery of the works from commencement through to completion. Our role included contract administration, stakeholder liaison, programme monitoring and coordination between the professional team and contractor to ensure the project was delivered safely, efficiently and in accordance with the client's requirements.

Close collaboration was maintained with mechanical and electrical consultants, En Masse Design Ltd, and principal contractor PJM Mechanical & Electrical Ltd to ensure

the successful implementation of the new heating system within the constraints of the occupied listed building.

 

The Solution

 

The project involved the removal of the original heating system and the installation of a new zone-controlled heating solution designed to improve efficiency and provide greater control over heating throughout the property.

 

Works included:

· Installation of new boilers, controls and associated pipework.

· Introduction of a modern zone-controlled heating system.

· Replacement radiators, including new skirting radiators selected to match the existing aesthetic and minimise visual impact within the historic interiors.

· Upgrading the overall heating infrastructure to improve performance and reliability.

The design and installation were carefully managed to ensure the upgraded systems integrated sympathetically within the listed building environment.

 

Project Delivery

 

The project was delivered over an 18-week construction programme and completed on schedule in mid-September, ensuring the building was fully prepared ahead of the heating season. Throughout the works, the house and chapel remained operational, with contractors working around the day-to-day activities of the occupants and wider diocesan functions.

 

Effective communication between the client, design team and contractors was key to maintaining programme certainty and managing the challenges associated with working in an occupied heritage property.

 

Outcome

 

The completed project has provided Bishops House with a modern, energy-efficient heating system that enhances occupant comfort while supporting the long-term preservation and operation of the historic property.

 

Delivered on time and within a project budget of £244,000 + VAT, the scheme demonstrates the SHW Building Consultancy Department's expertise in managing complex refurbishment and building services upgrade projects within sensitive and occupied heritage environments.

 

Project Summary

 

Client: Portsmouth Diocese Property: Bishops House, Portsmouth Building Type: Grade II Listed Clergy Residence SHW Service: Contract Administration Department: SHW Building Consultancy Department Project Value: £244,000 + VAT Contract Duration: 18 Weeks Main Contractor: PJM Mechanical & Electrical Ltd M&E Consultant: En Masse Design Ltd Completion: Mid-September 2026.